Testing – Flammability

FIRA undertakes flammability testing for items that are destined for both the domestic and contract markets. There is a series of standards and regulations applicable to the flammability of furniture and the exact requirements can be difficult to ascertain.

FIRA’s experts are able to discuss each specific situation with clients and to make the appropriate recommendations. It is important to note that furniture used in a domestic environment MUST comply with the legal document entitled “The UK Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations”

The regulations cover a number of issues including:

• all filling materials must meet specified ignition tests
• all upholstery must be cigarette resistant
• all covers must be match resistant
• furniture must be permanently labelled
• furniture must be display labelled
• furniture suppliers must maintain records for five years

They apply to all items of domestic upholstered furniture - that is furniture that has on it somewhere a padded area consisting of a cover over a resilient filling - including children’s furniture, sofa-beds, futons, bed head-boards and garden furniture, that are intended for private use in a dwelling. Mattresses, divans and bed bases (when upholstered) also fall within the scope of the regulations as do scatter cushions, pillows and covers.

Flammability standards also exist for contract and office furniture and, although not covered by the above-mentioned regulations, are no less important. Compliance with these standards is essential and will, in the majority of cases, be a requirement of tender documentation

Apply for testing today with our online form

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